By Nkhensani Mthombeni
The saying “money doesn’t buy happiness” seems to hold true for dedicated volunteer teacher Vutivi Ngwana.
The 25-year-old from Bonn Village near Tzaneen in Limpopo quit his dream job in tourism after just a month to return to teaching at Sedan High School.
He couldn’t resist the cries of his students who flooded him with messages begging him to come back.
Ngwana had initially resigned in January after securing his desired tourism position.
He said it was the heartfelt messages from his Grade 12 students that convinced him.
“Money is important, but serving my students is my calling,” he said.
“I believe God will support my decision.”
For the past four years, Ngwana has volunteered at Sedan, teaching tourism and life orientation to Grades 10 to 12.
He has consistently achieved a 100% pass rate with distinctions in his classes.
In February, he was recognised as the Best Volunteer Educator by Vutivi I Ndzhaka – a local non-profit organisation that supports schools in the area.
Ngwana and other volunteer teachers at Sedan receive only a stipend, making it difficult to support themselves financially.
Despite this, his passion for teaching and dedication to his students led him to return to the school on 1 March.
Both the students and their parents were thrilled to have Ngwana back.
Principal Winter Mavulwana said he was relieved and excited.
“Vutivi’s dedication is special. He’s a hardworking teacher beloved by all the students,” Mavulwana said.
“His absence was a significant loss, not just for the school but also for the Mopani West District Education Circuit. He was responsible for setting the Grade 12 exam papers last year. We’re all grateful he is back.”
Pictured above: Volunteer teacher Vutivi Ngwana.
Image source: Supplied
